English Reference
adjective · noun

energetic

adj. · n.
US /ˌɛnɝˈdʒɛtɪk/ UK /ˌɛnədʒˈɛtɪk/ en·er·get·ic

  1. 01 B1 Intermediate

    adj.having or showing a lot of energy and enthusiasm.

    adj.characterised by significant physical or mental vigour; possessing high levels of vitality.

    Simple

    The children were very energetic after their long nap and wanted to play outside.

    In context

    The new CEO delivered an energetic presentation that revitalised the morale of the struggling department.

  2. 02 C1 Advanced Technical Science

    adj.relating to energy or how it works.

    adj.pertaining to or possessing physical energy in a scientific context.

    Simple

    The scientist studied the energetic particles moving through the atmosphere.

    In context

    The experiment measured the energetic exchange between the two chemical compounds during the heating process.

  3. 03 C2 Proficiency Technical Science

    adj.describing a special form of a verb in Arabic that adds extra meaning or force.

    adj.relating to specific Arabic verb moods or forms used to intensify or emphasise the meaning of the action.

    Simple

    The student learned how to use the energetic form of the verb to show strong intent.

    In context

    In Classical Arabic, the energetic mood is typically marked by a suffix that provides additional rhetorical force to the statement.

  4. 04 C2 Proficiency Technical Science

    n.materials like explosives or fuel that release a lot of energy.

    n.substances used for their high energy release, such as propellants, explosives, or pyrotechnic compositions.

    Simple

    The factory produces energetics used in mining and construction.

    In context

    The research facility specialises in the safe handling and storage of advanced energetics for aerospace applications.

    Usage

    Usually used in the plural form 'energetics'.


Etymology 1

From New Latin energeticus (16th c.), or its source, Ancient Greek ἐνεργητικός (energētikós), from ἐνεργέω (energéō, “to be active”), from ἐνεργός (energós, “active”). By surface analysis, energy + -etic.

Etymology 2

Possibly from a clipping of energetic materials.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Origin Ancient Greek ἐνεργητικός
Level B1 · Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated